About the CURTISS WRIGHT ROBIN C-1
The Curtiss Wright Robin C-1 stands as a significant model in the annals of American general aviation, particularly known for its role in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Introduced in 1928 by Curtiss-Robertson Airplane Manufacturing Company, the Robin series was designed during a period marked by rapid advancements and increasing popularity of aviation. The Robin C-1, an iteration within this series, was produced in response to the burgeoning need for reliable and efficient light transport aircraft, catering both to private owners and commercial operators. At its core, the Robin was a high-wing monoplane, featuring robust construction, which earned it a reputation for durability and reliability. The aircraft typically housed a Wright J-6 Whirlwind radial engine, which delivered sufficient power to make it suitable for varied uses, ranging from passenger transport to mail delivery. A testament to its adaptability, the Robin C-1 was not just a favorite among small transport operators but also an aircraft of choice for numerous record-setting flights. One of the most notable events showcasing the Robin C-1’s potential was the endurance flight undertaken by the St. Louis Robin, which remained airborne for 420 hours, 21 minutes, and 30 seconds in July 1929, utilizing aerial refueling. This incredible feat highlighted the aircraft’s robust design and the practicality of in-flight refueling—an innovative concept at the time. The Robin’s design ethos emphasized practicality, with a well-executed layout that ensured ease of maintenance and operation, key factors for its broad adoption. Despite the Great Depression curtailing production numbers and advances in aviation technology eventually rendering it obsolete, the Curtiss Wright Robin C-1 remains a landmark in aviation history. Its contributions underscore a period of relentless innovation and expansion in general aviation, carving out a niche for rugged, versatile light aircraft that could serve a multiplicity of roles efficiently and reliably.